Fresh row at Khudiram centre as Shashi Panja stopped, TMC alleges “no CCTV” for EVMs

Tension resurfaced at the Khudiram Anushilan Centre in Kolkata on Saturday morning after Trinamool Congress leader Shashi Panja was briefly stopped from entering the premises by central forces, even as fresh allegations emerged over the handling of EVMs inside the strong room. The development comes amid heightened political scrutiny ahead of vote counting.

According to party claims, eight EVMs were allegedly kept in a room not covered by CCTV surveillance, prompting the filing of a written complaint with the Election Commission against the Returning Officer. The situation escalated as party workers gathered at the site, raising concerns over transparency and demanding that all movement of ballot units be conducted in the presence of candidates.

The centre had already witnessed high tension on Thursday night, with protests, arguments, and clashes between political workers, prompting intervention by security forces. Authorities have maintained that all allegations are unfounded, stating that the facility remains under strict three-tier security with heavy deployment of central forces and police, along with reinforced barricading and restrictions to prevent any disruption.